Before anything else, give yourself enough time. Though this might not be relevant if the application’s deadline is the next day, this will be helpful if you still have more application essays to write. Whether it’s your personal statement or supplemental application, take into consideration the extra time that goes into just writing your essay, especially if you normally suffer from writer’s block.

2. Stop Writing

Leave your work and come back to it in a few hours with a clear, fresh mind. Spending hours writing and revising the same one-page document might lead you to second-guess your ideas. After all, Michelangelo did not paint the Sistine Chapel in just one day. When you’re taking a break, do something you enjoy whether that means spending time outdoors, cooking, playing sports, etc. This will help get your mind off of your writing until you are ready to come back to it. When you revisit your work, you will be able to write and revise with a much clearer perspective.

3. Reflect

Think about events, people in your life, or organizations you’ve been apart of that have made a significant impact on you. Brainstorm and make a list. As you think about these topics, you might be surprised to see what you come up with. You can then use these events and stories as building blocks for your essay.